International Exchange Programs

KCAI offers students the opportunity to study internationally at one of our international exchange partner schools. Returning students often remark that their semester abroad changed their lives. Interested in changing your life?

Pictured: Sculpture major Kimberly Davidson takes time off during her semester abroad (spring 2013) at Bezalel Academy of Arts and Design in Jerusalem, Israel, to explore the Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem's Old City.

International Exchange Program requirements

Kansas City Art Institute maintains partnerships with schools in various countries around the world where our students may apply to spend one semester or, in some cases, an entire academic year. When you participate in the International Exchange Program you continue to be considered a full-time KCAI student. Because of the agreements we have with these partner schools, you will pay your tuition to KCAI as usual, so you will still receive your financial aid and scholarships. You will pay no tuition to the host school and will only be responsible for your transportation to and from your host country, your cost of living, books/supplies, an International Student Identity Card (ISIC Classic or Premium - a $25 or $85 card that provides travel and medical insurance as well as discounts while you are abroad) and any miscellaneous fees, such as an orientation fee or studio fees. Because we are partners with these schools, the credit you earn while studying there counts as KCAI credit (nottransfer credit). Because credits from these partner schools qualify as KCAI credit, they count toward fulfilling the requirement that your last 30 credit hours be earned at KCAI.

In order to participate in the International Exchange Program you must:

Be a full-time KCAI student the semester prior to and the semester of your mobility

Have at least junior studio status the semester of the proposed mobility

Have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0

Be a student in good academic and financial standing

Be proficient in the native language of the host school

Pictured: Emily Smith, a photography and art history double major, explores Paris, France, with her new friends while on the international exchange program at the Paris College of Art (fall 2013).

Want to know what it's like to spend a semester abroad on exchange? Check out Emily Smith's blog, An Art Student in Paris, to track her experience throughout the fall 2013 semester!

International exchange partner schools

KCAI currently has exchange agreements with the following institutions: